Public Meetings - Charlotte, North Carolina

The Charlotte City Council held a zoning meeting on November 18, 2024, in the Council Chamber of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center. The meeting began at 5:00 PM, with an initial deviation to recess into a closed session before resuming hearings. The agenda included consent items, deferred petitions, decision items, and public hearings on rezoning petitions. Key topics included affordable housing, traffic mitigation, community opposition, and the balance of residential and commercial uses in activity centers. Several petitions were approved unanimously, one was deferred, and public hearings were held for multiple rezoning requests. Consent Calendar - Consent Agenda (Items 3-10): Approved unanimously except items 4 and 10, which were pulled by Councilmember Johnson for separate discussion. - Items approved: 2024-045 (Drakeford Communities), 2024-075 (Arbo, LLC), 2024-080 (Diallo Mamdou Korka), 2024-081 (Caldwell Development, LLC), 2024-085 (AAAA Holdings, LLC), 2024-086 (Peak Sports Holdings, LLC). - Item 4 (2024-049) – Shreeji Hospitality of University, LLC: Pulled by Councilmember Johnson. She verified with staff that the petitioner confirmed no long-term occupants in the motel, ensuring no displacement. Approved unanimously. - Item 10 (2024-092) – Lucern Capital Partners: Pulled by Councilmember Johnson. She expressed support for a proposed child care center in the university research park. Approved unanimously. Deferrals - Decisions deferred to December 16, 2024: Items 11 (2023-023), 12 (2023-038), 13 (2023-039), 14 (2024-077), and 20 (2024-059) were all deferred by request of the petitioners. Approved unanimously. - Hearings deferred to December 16, 2024: Items 21 (2024-047), 22 (2024-098), and 26 (2024-088) were deferred. Approved unanimously. - Item 16 (2024-083) – City of Charlotte: Councilmember Anderson moved to defer this petition to next month to allow the city to provide answers to questions raised during the public hearing regarding the Belmont and Villa Heights communities. The motion passed unanimously. Decision Items (Non-Consent) - Item 15 (2024-082) – City of Charlotte (Animal Shelter): Motion to approve. Councilmember Brown spoke in support, noting community engagement and the need for a new animal shelter to alleviate overcrowding. She also expressed a personal desire to separate the animal shelter from CMPD. Approved unanimously. - Item 17 (2020-071) – 3G Investments and Developments: Staff noted minor changes after the zoning committee (hours of operation and alternative streetscapes). Council voted unanimously not to send the petition back to the committee. Councilmember Bokhari commended the petitioner for working with the community. Approved unanimously. - Item 18 (2022-224) – SRL Central Avenue Properties: Motion to approve. Councilmember Anderson noted strong neighborhood engagement and support. Approved unanimously. - Item 19 (2023-165) – Central Avenue Multifamily LLC: Staff noted changes after the zoning committee (traffic signal warrant analysis, parking, bike lanes). Council voted unanimously not to send back. Extensive discussion followed. - Councilmember Anderson (district representative) highlighted community benefits: a completed traffic study, CDOT-approved signal installation funded by the petitioner, increased parking minimums by 20%, and a 75% increase in commercial space. Letters of support from the Elizabeth Community Association, Plaza Midwood Merchants Association, and adjacent property owners. - Councilmember Mayfield opposed, citing concerns from residents about cumulative impacts, traffic, and vague language on the traffic signal. She also noted the narrow streets and lack of guarantee for the signal. - Staff clarified that the signal warrant analysis is complete, CDOT approved it, and the petitioner is committed to funding installation. The conditional notes reflect this. - Vote: Approved 10-1 (Councilmember Mayfield opposed). - Item 23 (2024-121) – Text Amendment (UDO Cleanup): This hearing was opened. Staff presented changes across 23 of 39 articles to improve functionality, clarify definitions, and adjust use permissions. Councilmembers Driggs, Ajmera, and Molina expressed concerns about not having seen the full details and requested a committee referral for deeper review. The public hearing was closed without a vote; the item will go to the Transportation, Planning, and Environment Committee for further discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Petition 2024-072 – Drakeford Company (Harvest Hill Drive area): - Carolyn Reinhardt (resident of Johnette Drive) and Paul Taylor (resident of Harvest Hill area) spoke in opposition. They cited traffic congestion on narrow streets (Johnette Drive as narrow as 17 feet), emergency vehicle access, stormwater runoff concerns, and the cumulative density impact. Reinhardt requested a separate rezoning for Johnette Drive. - The petitioner (Drakeford Communities) noted modifications: disconnecting Johnette Drive from the main development (now a cul-de-sac with 6 lots), limiting density to single-family or duplex, and committing two affordable units if the city-owned parcel is acquired. Councilmember Molina acknowledged more work is needed; the hearing was closed without a vote. - Petition 2024-101 – EB Arrow Crystal Real Estate (JW Clay Boulevard): - Pam Isaacs (resident of Lakeshore Village) spoke in opposition, expressing concern about the cumulative loss of retail and commercial space in the university area, diminishing walkability. She noted that the development was originally presented as a live-work-play community but is becoming primarily residential. The petitioner (Brett Seward) stated a minimum of 10,000 square feet of commercial space would remain. Councilmember Johnson requested a meeting; the hearing was closed without a vote. Discussion Items - Text Amendment (2024-121): Councilmembers Driggs, Ajmera, and Molina requested a deeper committee review due to the scope of changes. Staff agreed to present to the Transportation, Planning, and Environment Committee. - Traffic Signal for Central Avenue (2023-165): Clarification that a traffic warrant analysis was completed, and CDOT approved installation of a traffic signal at the petitioner’s expense. Councilmember Mayfield raised concerns about the conditional language being vague; staff confirmed the commitment is in the notes. - Community Notification: Councilmembers Brown and Johnson raised the issue of expanding notification to renters and increasing the radius beyond 300 feet. Staff noted current UDO notifications exceed state law; the matter will be revisited during strategic planning. Key Outcomes - Approved unanimously: Consent items (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10), deferrals, items 15, 17, 18, 24 (2024-002), 27 (2024-089), 28 (2024-095), 29 (2024-097), 30 (2024-100). - Approved 10-1: Item 19 (2023-165). - Deferred: Item 16 (2024-083) to December 16, 2024. - Public hearings closed without vote (more work needed): Items 24 (2024-072) and 31 (2024-101). Item 23 (text amendment) referred to committee. - Next steps: The text amendment will go to the Transportation, Planning, and Environment Committee. Councilmember Johnson will meet with the petitioner for 2024-101. Councilmember Molina will continue working with the Drakeford project and neighborhood.

On November 4, 2024, the Charlotte City Council held a Committee Discussions meeting beginning at 6:00 PM in Room 267 of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center. The meeting was brief and primarily consisted of a motion to enter closed session to discuss the qualifications, competence, performance, fitness, or conditions of appointment or employment of an individual. Discussion Items - Council members considered a motion to enter closed session under the exemption for discussing qualifications, competence, performance, fitness, conditions of appointment, or conditions of initial employment of an individual public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee. Key Outcomes - The motion to enter closed session was made, seconded, and passed unanimously among the members present: Council Members Watlington, Brown, Bokhari, Graham, Mayfield, Molina, and Bailows. No further discussion was held before moving into closed session.

The Charlotte City Council held a business meeting on October 28, 2024, starting at 5:00 PM for the Action Review and Consent Agenda, and reconvening at 6:30 PM for the regular meeting. The meeting included consent agenda approvals, public hearings, a proclamation, public forum, and discussion of major items including the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) update, the Faith in Housing initiative, and the Hornets practice facility property transactions. The meeting adjourned after approving a consent item and discussing a pedestrian safety project. Consent Calendar - Items 21, 35, 48, and 49 were deferred by staff to the November 25, 2024 business meeting. - Items 53 and 54 (Vision Zero Pedestrian Safety Hybrid Beacon – Park Road at Sunset, Parcels 2 and 3) were pulled for a separate vote after a speaker opposed the project. The council voted to approve them despite objections from the property owner (Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter), who argued the mid-block crosswalk was unnecessary and that the city had inadequate communication. Staff stated the project was requested by a resident with disabilities and that alternatives were not feasible. The vote was 7-0 (unanimous). - All other consent items (including approval of contracts, purchases, and property acquisitions) were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Alicia Santana (small business owner) criticized the procurement process, alleging that contracts are awarded to well-connected firms, that small businesses face barriers, and that subcontracting opportunities are hollow. - Robin McEnroth requested support for a new, updated animal shelter for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care and Control and moving the shelter out of the police department budget to a separate department. - Rayfield Taylor (returning citizen) called for mandatory hiring of justice-involved individuals by city contractors and employers, citing lack of second-chance employment despite existing programs. - Valerie Washington (housing preservation) pleaded for affordable housing, stating she faces rent increases and cannot find income-based apartments; she asked for help from the city. - Famisha Okoca (pastor, Christ Semacy Church) thanked the council for economic progress and offered prayers. - Priscilla O’Hoyo (airport cabin cleaner) described harsh working conditions, low pay, and dehydration, noting that a petition to management had produced no change. - Anna London (president of Charlotte Works) advocated for funding for Care Ring, a health care provider for uninsured residents, arguing it supports workforce productivity. - Dr. Kenny Robinson (Freedom Fight Missionaries) also supported Care Ring, emphasizing its work with justice-involved individuals and pregnant women in detention. Discussion Items - American Rescue Plan (ARPA) Update (Action Review, 5:00 PM): Sean Heath (City Manager’s Office) reported that the city received $141.6 million in ARPA funds. $31 million was allocated to city operations and $110 million to community-facing programs. As of October 28, $91.9 million had been spent and $21.4 million obligated, leaving $28.3 million unobligated. To meet the December 31, 2024 obligation deadline, staff proposed using revenue replacement for six project areas (e.g., anti-displacement, affordable housing, workforce development) to extend the spending period. This would free up $5.35 million for redeployment, plus $4.55 million in interest earnings, totaling $10 million available for new uses. Council discussed potential priorities including nonprofit support (e.g., Care Ring, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Do Greater Charlotte) and pay-go capital investments. No decisions were made; staff will return with an RCA for revenue replacement. - Faith in Housing Initiative Update (Action Review, 5:00 PM): Councilmember LaWana Mayfield and Warren Wooten (Housing and Neighborhood Services) presented the initiative launched in January 2024. Over 80 faith leaders participated in 12 small group discussions. A May 2024 summit drew 300+ attendees from 95 faith communities. The city allocated $2.5 million (ARPA funds) for technical assistance. Councilmember Mayfield asked for an additional $1 million. The initiative has already supported creation of over 700 affordable housing units by faith groups. Upcoming steps include a readiness checklist, a flash advising event in early 2025, and two grant opportunities for faith organizations (cohort-based design and individual technical assistance grants). The city will continue to host virtual sessions (e.g., Land Development 102 on Oct 29). - Hornets Property Transactions (Business Item 14): The council approved a ground lease of 1.907 acres (Tract 2) to Charlotte PEC, LLC for $10/year for 99 years, and an option to purchase 1.312 acres (Tract 1). The city also approved $15 million in fund balance for the parking structure portion of the new practice facility (Performance Enhancement Center). The city will retain 125 parking spaces weekdays 7 AM–5:30 PM, paying $150,000 annually for maintenance. Councilmembers Mayfield and Johnson opposed, citing concerns about the limited hours and broader parking affordability for uptown workers. The item passed 9-2. Key Outcomes - Consent items (except deferred and pulled items) approved unanimously. - Items 53 and 54 (Vision Zero Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon) approved unanimously after debate. - Action Review items: ARPA update received; staff directed to return with revenue replacement RCA. Faith in Housing update received; council expressed support for potential additional funding. - Public Hearings: Three public hearings held: - Courtyards at Back Creek Properties voluntary annexation (78.24 acres, 142 single-family units) – closed and ordinance adopted unanimously. - Russell Grove Area voluntary annexation (60.13 acres, 185 single-family units) – closed and ordinance adopted unanimously. - Transit Technology Project Grant Applications (7 grants totaling $4,234,574) – closed and resolution adopted unanimously. - Business items 12-19 all approved (details below): - Item 12: UNTechCLT grant ($250,000 from US Conference of Mayors/Comcast) – approved. - Item 13: Renewable Natural Gas sale to Piedmont Natural Gas (75% revenue share, est. $56.9M over 20 years) – approved. - Item 14: Hornets Property Transactions – approved (9-2). - Item 15: Ramsey Creek Park shuttle bus interlocal agreement (seasonal, $20,710) – approved. - Item 16: W.T. Harris Blvd/Sugar Creek Rd intersection project ($1,338,000 NCDOT grant) – approved. - Item 17: West Rocky River Rd shared-use path ($1,976,000 NCDOT grant) – approved. - Item 18: Hornets Nest Park access improvements ($1,030,000 supplement) – approved. - Item 19: Metropolitan Planning Program grant ($1,449,642 total) – approved. - Appointment: Judson Stringfellow appointed to the Alternative Compliance Review Board (partial term through Dec 31, 2026).

The Charlotte City Council held a zoning meeting on October 21, 2024, beginning at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included deferrals, a consent agenda, decisions on previously heard petitions, and public hearings for new petitions. Key actions included approval of most consent and decision items, one deferral, and public hearings opened for future consideration. Deferrals - Three petitions were deferred to the November 18, 2024 meeting: Petition 2024-045 (Drakeford Communities), Petition 2020-071 (3G Investments and Developments), and Petition 2022-224 (SRL Central Avenue Properties). The motion passed unanimously. Consent Calendar - Items 3 through 14 (excluding deferred item 7) were approved unanimously. These included rezoning petitions from Ahmad Developers (2023-070), Oak Hill Management (2024-006), Jackson Kastle (2024-034), Church-Overlook (2024-037), Savalex Homes (2024-057), Alchemy Development (2024-063), Carmel Park Partners (2024-066), Culp Road Materials (2024-068), Summit Avenue West Boulevard (2024-070), The Drakeford Company (2024-071), and Merancas Holdings (2024-074). All met criteria of no public opposition, zoning committee approval, no changes, and staff recommendation. Decisions (Items 17–24) - Item 17 (2023-165, Central Avenue Multifamily): After discussion regarding community engagement and traffic concerns, Councilmember Anderson made a substitute motion to defer to the November 18 meeting. The motion passed unanimously. - Item 18 (2024-008, Bank OZK): Council voted 6-1 to approve a conditional rezoning from TOD-TR to CG(CD), despite staff opposition citing inconsistency with the 2019 transit-oriented rezoning. Councilmember Ajmera voted against, stating it undermines the adopted 2040 plan. Councilmember Johnson spoke in favor, noting the importance of drive-throughs for bank operations. - Item 19 (2024-046, Lennar Carolinas): Approved unanimously after minor site plan changes (streetscape extension, setback documentation, tree survey). - Item 20 (2024-055, Tiwana Phipps): Approved unanimously following staff recommendation, overriding the Zoning Committee's 4-2 denial. Councilmember Brown expressed support based on staff recommendation. - Item 21 (2024-056, Vivo Investments): Approved unanimously. District representative Brown confirmed individual outreach to community leaders despite no formal online meeting. - Item 22 (2024-060, DreamKey Partners): Approved unanimously. Councilmember Mayfield raised concerns about a previously approved traffic signal at the intersection not yet installed; CDOT confirmed the signal is part of another development's commitment but has no timeline. - Item 23 (2024-062, Otis Crowder): Approved unanimously after minor changes (labeling curb/gutter, updating conditional note, showing heritage trees). - Item 24 (2024-078, Tripointe Homes): Approved unanimously. Councilmember Molina explained the site plan amendment removes a through-road connection that would be unsuitable due to narrow streets and strong community opposition. She supported the amendment as recommended by staff. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 25 (2024-082, City of Charlotte – Animal Care and Control): Frances McVay, a native Charlotte resident, expressed opposition citing concerns about the site's history as a city dump (1970s), potential methane gas, earthquake fault lines, and negative impacts on property values. She urged the council to research land history before approving development. Staff rebutted that environmental Phase I and II studies found no contaminants or methane on this parcel. Councilmembers requested that the reports be shared with Ms. McVay and the community. - Item 26 (2024-083, City of Charlotte – ADU Pilot): Two speakers opposed: - Brandon Gary, a Microsoft employee and Belmont neighborhood resident, argued the neighborhood already has a high percentage of affordable housing (15% by land use), lacks commercial/retail walkability, and that this location is the least ideal for an ADU pilot. He suggested focusing on assisting current residents displaced by gentrification rather than further concentration of low-income housing. - Doug Faust, a longtime Charlotte resident and 10-year Belmont homeowner, echoed concerns about excessive affordable housing concentration leading to increased crime and stated that building an ADU on the Pegram Street parcel would require removing a 150-year-old heritage oak tree. He asked that the city consider better uses for the land. Petitioner Miles Vaughn (City of Housing and Neighborhood Services) responded that two community meetings were held, the builder amended plans to match neighborhood character, and homebuyers would undergo rigorous counseling to prepare for homeownership challenges. Staff noted that a heritage tree protection review would occur during land development review. Public Hearings (Items 25–34) All public hearings were opened and closed; no votes were taken. These petitions will be reviewed by the Zoning Committee on November 7, 2024. - Item 25 (2024-082): Staff presented a 7.05-acre site for an animal shelter. The petition is inconsistent with the 2040 policy map (parks/preserves) but addresses a community need for animal care. - Item 26 (2024-083): Staff presented two parcels for an ADU pilot program (7 sites total). The petition is partially inconsistent with the policy map. - Item 27 (2024-049, Shreeji Hospitality): No opposition. Petitioner seeks TOD-CC zoning to refinance a hotel. - Item 28 (2024-075, Arbo, LLC): No opposition. Conditional rezoning to CAC-1(CD) with height (50 ft) and floor area (16,500 sq ft) limits. - Item 29 (2024-077, Drox Group): Staff presented a 194-unit multifamily townhome project; outstanding transportation and environmental issues remain. - Item 30 (2024-080, Diallo Mamdou Korka): No opposition. Rezoning to remove legacy conditional zoning. - Item 31 (2024-081, Caldwell Development): Councilmember Molina requested additional community feedback before a vote. - Item 32 (2024-085, AAA Holdings): No opposition. Rezoning to align with existing commercial use; staff noted a future place type change is under consideration. - Item 33 (2024-086, Peak Sports Holdings): Discussion focused on transportation improvements and the potential future Silver Line transit corridor. - Item 34 (2024-092, Lucern Capital Partners): Staff presented a daycare and commercial project with EX provisions. Councilmembers expressed strong support. Key Outcomes - Three petitions deferred to November 18, 2024 (Items 7, 15, 16). - Consent agenda (12 petitions) approved unanimously. - Seven decision items approved (Items 18–24), with one (Item 17) deferred. - One decision (Item 18) passed 6-1; Councilmember Ajmera voted no. - All 10 public hearings were opened and closed; they will proceed to the Zoning Committee on November 7, 2024, for recommendations.

The Charlotte City Council held its regular business meeting on Monday, October 14, 2024, at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center. The meeting addressed a range of topics including consent agenda items, public hearings, policy discussions, and business items. Key actions included the adoption of a new Financial Partners Policy, direction to support a public-private partnership for I-77 South Express Lanes, approval of a housing trust fund reallocation, and amendments to historic landmark designations. Several proclamations were also read.

The Charlotte City Council held committee discussions on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Room 267 of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center. The meeting featured updates from committee chairs, a detailed presentation from NCDOT on the I-77 South Express Lanes project, and a review of the proposed Financial Partners Policy. Council also received updates on workforce development, the Chetty study on economic mobility, and a fire response review. Updates from Council Committee Chairs - Transportation & Development (Councilmember Ed Driggs): Reported on CATS operating data, tree canopy plans, CAP energy plan updates, and provided an extensive overview of the I-77 South project. The committee heard from NCDOT about the comparative analysis between traditional toll delivery and a public-private partnership (P3). - Budget & Governance (Councilmember Dimple Ajmera): Recapped committee discussions on the federal/state legislative agenda (including child care, gaming, and DA office funding) and optimizing MWSBE participation in capital projects. A pilot program is under review. - Jobs & Economic Development (Councilmember Malcolm Graham): Received an update from the Office of Workforce Development on the development plan. Consultants will deliver a final report in late October, with a detailed presentation expected in late November/early December. - Housing & Safety (Councilmember LaWana Mayfield): Provided a report on the May 18 South Park fire (707 41 Liberty Road Drive), highlighting response challenges (11-minute delay in calling 911, no fire suppression systems, inoperable hydrant). The city is now coordinating with Mecklenburg County for early notification of construction projects. Also reported on the updated Chetty study on economic mobility: Charlotte now ranks 3rd out of 50 cities in upward mobility, and Mecklenburg County is the only county where low-income white children experience no decline in mobility. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were taken during this committee discussions meeting. Discussion Items - I-77 South Express Lanes Project: - NCDOT Division 10 Engineer Brett Knipe, Carly Swanson (Director of Innovative Delivery), and David Roy (N.C. Turnpike Authority) presented the project overview. The proposed 11-mile managed lanes project from Brookshire Freeway to the South Carolina state line is estimated at $3.7 billion. The project has been in the State Transportation Improvement Program since 2014, with $600 million in state funds allocated. The comparative analysis showed that a traditional toll delivery has a $1.3 billion funding gap, while a P3 delivery is likely financially feasible. - Several council members expressed concerns and asked detailed questions about lessons learned from I-77 North (controversy, toll pricing, utilization rates, MWSBE contracts, equity programs, and community impacts). Councilmembers Johnson, Molina, Ajmera, Graham, Brown, and others voiced support for moving forward cautiously with the P3 process, emphasizing transparency, transit benefits, emergency responder access, and community engagement. - Councilmember Driggs stated his recommendation to support continuing work on the RFQ. The CRTPO board is scheduled to vote on next steps on October 16, and the full council will consider a resolution on October 14. Councilmember Driggs requested that any strenuous objections be communicated before the vote. - Financial Partners Policy: - Marie Harris and Cherry Smith presented the proposed policy, which includes a 30% budget cap per organization, five-year funding limit (with annual renewal), enhanced performance monitoring, and a ranked review process. Key points of contention: allowing applicants who are actively seeking 501(c)(3) status (not yet granted) and the five-year limit. - Councilmembers Johnson and Molina objected to allowing pending 501(c)(3) status, arguing it could displace qualified organizations and create uncertainty. Councilmember Brown championed the provision as a way to support grassroots organizations. Councilmember Mayfield noted the committee had extensive discussion and the provision was included as a compromise. - Councilmember Molina suggested the policy needs more structure regarding the five-year limit and the pending status requirement. The policy is scheduled for a vote on October 14, with an opportunity for amendments. - City Manager Marcus Jones noted that an update on unspent ARPA funds will be presented at the next meeting, which could affect the financial partners conversation. Key Outcomes - I-77 South: The council will consider a resolution at the October 14 meeting to authorize the city's CRTPO representative (Councilmember Driggs) to vote in favor of continuing the P3 development process. If approved, NCDOT will work with CRTPO to form a working group and develop indicative terms over an estimated 6-9 months. The council retains the ability to withdraw support at any point before public advertisement of the RFQ. - Financial Partners Policy: The proposed policy will be placed on the October 14 agenda for a vote. Amendments are possible. Concerns about the pending 501(c)(3) provision and five-year limit may be addressed during the meeting. - Workforce Development Plan: Final consultant report expected by end of October, with a detailed presentation to the Jobs & Economic Development Committee in late November/early December. - Chetty Study: The housing committee recommended a deep dive on the updated Chetty study during the council's strategic planning session. Staff will present to additional committees as needed. - Fire Response: The city is implementing new protocols for construction project notification and fire hydrant operability checks.

The Charlotte City Council held a zoning meeting on September 16, 2024, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center. Acting Mayor Ed Driggs presided. The meeting addressed deferrals, consent agenda items, decisions, and public hearings on several rezoning petitions. Consent Calendar - Items 3 through 10, with the exception of Item 6 (deferred), were considered as a consent agenda. Councilmember Johnson pulled Item 9 (2024-058) for separate discussion. The remaining consent items (3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10) were approved unanimously. - Item 9 (2024-058) – Wilkes Asset Management: Rezoning 2.85 acres from CC to CAC-1(EX) near Ridge Road. Despite a resident's concern about a storage facility, the project includes 7.5% net site acreage for public open space, an off-site sidewalk network, and potential employment. Councilmember Johnson supported it. The petition was approved, adopting the Zoning Committee's statement of consistency. Deferrals - Items 2024-034 (Jackson Kastle, LLC), 2022-224 (SRL Central Avenue Properties, LLC), 2023-165 (Central Avenue Multifamily LLC), and 2024-056 (Vivo Investments LLC) were deferred to October 21, 2024. - Item 2024-035 (City of Charlotte) was deferred to December 16, 2024. Discussion Items - Item 15 (2024-011) – Eastwood Homes: Proposed rezoning 17.48 acres from N1-A to N2-A(CD). The Zoning Committee recommended denial (6-0), but staff recommended approval. After the Zoning Committee, the petitioner added a children's playground with seating area and a seating area with landscaping along Johnston Oehler Road. Council voted not to return the petition to committee and then approved over the Zoning Committee's objection. Councilmember Johnson emphasized community outreach, rental caps (25%), and cooperation with the District 4 coalition. - Item 16 (2024-024) – Orissa Holdings, LLC: Rezoning 9.13 acres in the ETJ from MX-2 to N2-A(CD). The Zoning Committee recommended approval (6-0), but staff did not recommend due to policy concerns. Councilmember Johnson supported the petition for its community benefits: 41% open space, 2.4 acres dedicated to the Back Creek Greenway, attainable housing, and a 20% rental restriction. Council approved, overriding staff's recommendation. - Item 19 (2024-078) – Tripointe Homes Holdings, Inc.: Site plan amendment to clarify a transportation note and prevent road connection to Levy Way. Petitioner Colin Brown argued it honors the original agreement with the community. Opponent Justin Klein cited broken trust and environmental/traffic concerns. Staff acknowledged a note error. Councilmember Molina requested further review. - Item 26 (2024-051) – The Site Group, PLLC: Proposed IMU(CD) for potential conversion of a hotel to multifamily on Westpark Drive. Staff recommended upon resolution of issues. Councilmembers raised concerns about displacement of hotel residents and cumulative impacts of hotel conversions. Hearing closed. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 18 (2024-059) – Veer Homes, LLC: Opponent Keith Steines (Mammoth Oaks resident) voiced concerns about traffic, narrow roads (19 ft wide), drainage, and safety impacts of 31 units on Timber Lane. Petitioner Colin Brown argued the site is appropriate for missing-middle housing. - Item 19 (2024-078) – Opponent Justin Klein (Oakhurst resident) argued that removing the note would set a precedent for developers to bypass conditional requirements. - Item 20 (2024-046) – Petitioner Colin Brown noted the request is to downzone to the lowest district (N1-A) from multifamily. - Item 22 (2024-060) – Supporters included Pastor Matt Connor of Newell Presbyterian Church, who highlighted a partnership with DreamKey Partners to create affordable for-sale homes. - Item 24 (2024-006) – Councilmember Molina noted concerns about displacement of social service agencies in the existing office park. - Item 26 (2024-051) – Councilmember Johnson raised displacement concerns; petitioner stated no permanent residents are known but agreed to examine relocation plans. Key Outcomes - Deferrals: Four items deferred to October 21, 2024; one item deferred to December 16, 2024. - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (Items 3-10, except 6 and 9). - Decision Items: Item 14 (text amendment) approved. Items 15 and 16 approved over Zoning Committee/staff recommendations. - Public Hearings: All 18 hearings closed without a vote. They will be reviewed by the Zoning Committee and return to Council for future decisions.

The Charlotte City Council held a business meeting on September 9, 2024, at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center. The meeting included a consent agenda, public forum, action review, public hearing, policy decisions, and votes on numerous business items. Key actions included approval of the Affordable Housing Funding Policy with a $100 million Housing Trust Fund, the Eastland Redevelopment Sports and Entertainment Development Agreement, and several transportation and infrastructure contracts. The meeting also featured a proclamation for National Suicide Prevention Month and public comments on animal shelter conditions and community development needs. Consent Calendar - Approved consent items 19 through 35, with items 28 and 33 pulled for separate discussion and vote. - Item 28 (CATS Micro-Transit Services) approved after questions from Councilmembers Johnson and Mayfield; contract with MV Transportation Inc. and Spare Labs Inc. for on-demand transit service; 38.14% MBE participation noted. - Item 33 (Municipal Records Retention and Disposition Schedule Update) approved after discussion about transparency and backlog of public records requests; staff committed to provide a report on pending requests. - Other approved consent items included: Housing Counseling contracts (DreamKey Partners, Community Link), HOPWA contract (Carolinas CARE Partnership, $3.64M), heavy truck collision repair (Rush Truck Center), sign fabrication (Carolina Signs and Wonders, RLM Group, JKS Motorsports), waterproofing services (Strickland Waterproofing), engineering for Ashe Plantation WWTP upgrade ($489,500 amendment), storm drainage improvements at three locations ($2.375M), High Ridge Road drainage project ($1.458M), South End Station engineering amendment ($988,723), vanpool operations (Enterprise Leasing), airport electric vehicle charger parts (sole source, Averest), airport fire protection maintenance amendment ($99,425), tree canopy preservation land acquisition ($850,000 for 7.609 acres), records retention schedule update, minutes approval (six meetings from 2022), and property transactions for Bryant Farms Road and Saint John Lane. Public Comments & Testimony - Joy Mayo (Transforming Nations Forward) and Silgan Sow (Our Bridge) urged the city to sell a city-owned parcel at Arrowwood Road to Mecklenburg County for $1 to create youth amenities (basketball courts, soccer fields, playground, pavilion). They cited over 1,000 signatures and stark inequities: in the Southwest area, life expectancy drops to 60 years (48 in some apartments), 60% of neighbors are Hispanic/Latino, and only 36% of homes have internet access. They requested meetings with each council member. - Kristen Coughlin and Anna Grace Blunt (animal foster volunteers) advocated for a new, adequately staffed animal shelter and independent city department (currently under CMPD). They described staff burnout, outdated facilities, and procedural obstacles causing animal suffering (e.g., kennel cough, pneumonia). They urged council to prioritize shelter reform. - No speakers for the Hudspeth Area Voluntary Annexation public hearing. Discussion Items - Community Area Planning Update: Staff (Monica Holmes, Kathy Cornett) presented Phase 3 engagement for the 14 area plans, with workshops through fall 2024. The revised policy map (6% change from community input) and a policy map manual were released. Councilmember Driggs requested district-level review before draft plan adoption in early 2025. Councilmember Bokhari stressed the need for infrastructure needs assessment (roads, water, sewer) tied to UDO density increases. Staff committed to providing district-specific briefing books and further council engagement. - Arts and Culture Governance: Staff (Julia Martin) proposed a new Arts, Science, and Cultural Council (ASCC) governance structure with a 17-member board (5 city, 5 county, 3 Foundation for the Carolinas, 2 Mecklenburg towns, 2 from grants advisory board). The city’s $11 million FY25 arts allocation includes $9M hardwired to traditional organizations (distributed via Foundation) and $2M for Charlotte is Creative. Debate centered on accountability, equity of funding, and appointment processes. Councilmember Bokhari and others expressed concerns about board composition and transparency. The council deferred a decision, with the City Manager committing to bring back additional details on governance at the first business meeting in October. - Financial Partner Policy: Deferred as it was still in committee. Key Outcomes - Affordable Housing Funding Policy (Item 10): Approved unanimously. Establishes a $100 million Housing Trust Fund for FY2025 with investment categories: Rental Housing Production ($35M), Homeownership ($25M), Rental Housing Preservation/Anti-Displacement ($14M), Supportive Housing/Shelter ($9M), Rehabilitation/Emergency Repair ($5M), Innovation Pilot Fund ($5M), Site Acquisition for Transit Areas ($5M), Administration/Evaluation ($2M). Prioritizes homebuyers, lower-wage workers, at-risk households, and location incentives. Board directed staff to finalize community survey (under 400 responses so far) to inform implementation. - Hudspeth Area Voluntary Annexation (Item 8): Public hearing closed; ordinance adopted effective September 9, 2024. Annexes 37.04 acres (two parcels) east of I-485 on North Tryon Street, owned by Meck29 APT, LLC, to allow 379 multi-family dwelling units. Assigned to Council District 4. Staff noted minimal impacts on city services and projected revenue exceeding costs. - Public Transportation Grant (Item 11): Approved $417,600 from NCDOT for regional transit coordination (ConCPT program) with $104,400 local match. - Morris Field Drive Bridge Replacement (Item 12): Approved supplemental agreements accepting $1,745,000 (STBG-DA) and $857,000 (STBG for design cost overage), plus budget ordinance for $2,602,000. Project total: $12.688M; construction starts FY2026. - Rea Road Widening Project (Item 13): Approved $300,000 supplemental from NCDOT for additional resurfacing. Project total $20.27M; construction starts early 2026. - Opioid Settlement Funding (Item 14): Approved resolution directing expenditure of $14.47 million in settlement proceeds (annual avg. $964,499) for recovery housing and employment services via Mecklenburg County interlocal agreement. - Eastland Redevelopment Sports and Entertainment Development Agreement (Item 15): Approved after public comment from Greg Asciutto (Charlotte East). Authorizes City Manager to negotiate master development agreement with the merged sports complex team (QC East @ Eastland Yards and Eastland Yards Indoor Sports Complex). Total city commitment: up to $18.994M for public infrastructure (additional $8.994M) and up to $22.334M for amateur sports facilities (additional $2.344M), funded by General Capital Investment Plan and Convention Center Tax Fund. Project will create 500 jobs, 9,000+ hours of free community access, youth sports, and retail/entertainment. Councilmembers highlighted 20-year community effort. - Byrne Discretionary Grant – CARES Program (Item 16): Approved acceptance of $963,000 from DOJ to expand the Civilian Assistance: Respond, Engage, Support (CARES) team. Grant funds 4 clinicians, 1 program coordinator, 1 navigator, 1 supervisor to respond to mental health/homelessness calls. Partnership with Mecklenburg County to expand hours/geographic reach. - Police Department Land Acquisition (Item 17): Approved purchase of 11.79 acres on Woodridge Center Drive for $7.1 million to relocate CMPD Aviation Division and expand Special Operations. Includes existing 27,341 sq. ft. office building; closing by October 15, 2024. - Appointment to Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Access Corporation (Item 18): Appointed Sasha Tomaszycki to partial term ending June 30, 2026. - Proclamation: Recognized September 2024 as National Suicide Prevention Month. Fonda Bryant highlighted that suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 10-34 and for police officers not in line of duty; CMPD lost fourth officer to suicide in 2.5 years.

The Charlotte City Council met on September 3, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center to consider two major transportation items and receive committee updates. The council voted nearly unanimously to adopt a resolution supporting legislation that would allow Mecklenburg County voters to decide on a one-cent sales tax increase for transportation, and to authorize the purchase of the Norfolk Southern O-Line corridor for the future Red Line commuter rail project. Council also heard presentations on Eastland Mall development and a new affordable housing funding policy. Public Comments & Testimony - Sales Tax Referendum and Red Line (combined testimony): Over a dozen speakers addressed the council, nearly all in support of both items. Speakers included Adam Rue (South Park Community Partners, supporting the generational investment), Hope Wright (Sustain Charlotte, urging approval while noting the legislation is a compromise), Tesho Akendelli (Camp North End, supporting the Red Line and requesting a Camp North End stop), Joe Bost (Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, emphasizing business community support), Jarrett Herms (Transit Service Advisory Council chair, advocating for transformative transit), Arthur Walker and Nile Bowen and Faith Strickland (CATS bus operators and drivers, highlighting benefits for bus service and wages), Will Darden (Commonwealth Morningside Neighborhood Association, emphasizing equity and economic mobility), Chris Wallace (CATS rider, supporting both items and urging multimodal improvements), and Michael Smith and John Morris (residents, urging progress and noting the federal government’s support). Garland Green (South Charlotte resident) requested robust public engagement before the referendum. One speaker, Russell Wingett, expressed skepticism about using traditional rail technology and suggested exploring autonomous vehicles, but did not explicitly oppose the purchase. Discussion Items - Resolution Supporting Sales Tax Referendum (Item 1): Council members discussed the need to allow voters to decide on a one-cent sales tax for roads and transit. Chair Ed Driggs clarified that the resolution only asks the General Assembly for permission to hold a referendum, not to impose a tax. Several members noted that the vote is a step toward addressing long-standing transportation needs and that it enables federal matching funds. Council Member Tariq Bokhari voiced opposition, citing concerns about the regressive nature of the tax, lack of a defined roads plan, and a flawed governance model. The resolution passed nearly unanimously (one dissenting vote). - Norfolk Southern Corridor Acquisition for CATS Red Line (Item 2): The council considered the $101 million purchase of approximately 22 miles of O-Line right-of-way and related property for the future Red Line commuter rail. Supporters called it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, noting the price is below market value ($3.36 million per mile compared to comparable sales). Council members acknowledged the risk but stressed that owning the land provides options even if the full transit plan fails. Bokhari again dissented, arguing that the governance structure is not yet resolved and the city could be left with a liability. The purchase passed nearly unanimously (one dissenting vote). - Eastland Mall Development Update: Council Member Malcolm Graham presented the committee’s recommendation to approve an additional $11.338 million in funding ($8.994 million from CIP and $2.334 million from hospitality funds) for public infrastructure and amateur sports facilities at the Eastland site, bringing the total city support to $41.338 million. The committee voted 5-0 to recommend approval; the full council will vote on September 9. - Affordable Housing Funding Policy Referral: Director Hefner presented the Housing Safety and Community Committee’s recommended policy for the historic $100 million housing bond. The policy shifts focus to resident outcomes (residential stability, neighborhood affordability, economic mobility) and includes new priorities: home ownership, anti-displacement, resident services, partnerships/leverage, and innovation. Bond investment categories with allocation goals were outlined (e.g., $35M rental housing production, $25M home ownership, $14M preservation, $9M supportive housing, $5M site acquisition near transit, and $5M innovation pilot). The committee voted 5-0 to move forward; full council will vote on September 9. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (Sales Tax Referendum Resolution): Approved with nearly unanimous support (one dissenting vote). The resolution requests the North Carolina General Assembly to authorize a referendum for a one-cent sales tax for transportation in Mecklenburg County. - Item 2 (Norfolk Southern O-Line Purchase): Approved with nearly unanimous support (one dissenting vote). The city will spend $101 million to acquire the corridor, property for Gateway Station, and transitional insurance, with closing expected by September 9, 2024. - Eastland Mall Funding: Committee recommended approval of $11.338 million in additional funds; full council vote scheduled for September 9. - Housing Bond Policy: Committee recommended the new affordable housing funding policy; full council vote scheduled for September 9, ahead of the November bond referendum.